Self-hugging pillow

ABSTRACT

A self-hugging pillow includes functionality to simulate the action of a hug. In particular aspects, a user may dispose the self-hugging pillow around the user&#39;s body, such as around the user&#39;s chest under the user&#39;s arms. The user may activate the self-hugging pillow, which may cause the self-hugging pillow to simulate the action of a hug. For example, the user may cause an activation cord running through the interior of the self-hugging pillow to tighten, such as by grabbing each end of the activation cord and pulling, which may cause the self-hugging pillow to compress or tighten around the user. The compression of the self-hugging pillow around the user may be similar to the compression action exerted upon a person during a hug. As such, the compression of the self-hugging pillow may squeeze the user and cause a hugging sensation, which the user may perceive as a hug.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to sleeping aid or other plush devices, and more particularly, to a self-hugging pillow or stuffed animal or other plush toy.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Most people spend about a third of their life sleeping, albeit in eight-hour chunks. A great number of people sleep on a bed, with their head or body resting on at least one pillow. Pillows are thus, quite prevalent in our lives, as they help create a comfortable sleeping environment. There are many different varieties of pillows, of different shapes, sizes, and materials. The basic form of a pillow consists of a casing whose interior is filled with stuffing material, typically a resilient and soft material to provide a surface upon which a user's head or body, or a part thereof, may lie.

But lying on a bed is also a very intimate activity, and it is also usually a time for reflection, introspection, and simply contemplation of life. It is because of this, that people often most miss loved ones, or the intimacy of another person, when they are lying on a bed. One often most needs the intimate touch of a hug, when lying on a bed. However, currently, sleeping environments and sleeping aids and devices provide no functionality for solving this need.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Various aspects of the present invention are directed to a self-hugging pillow, and/or methods of manufacturing and/or using a self-hugging pillow that includes functionality to simulate the action of a hug. In particular aspects, the self-hugging pillow of embodiments may include a casing with a stuffing or cushioning material filling the interior of the casing. The self-hugging pillow includes an activation cord running through the interior of the casing, where each end of the activation cord exits or departs the interior of the casing from an opening on the outer surface of the casing at a particular distance from respective ends of the self-hugging pillow to the exterior of the self-hugging pillow. A user may activate the self-hugging pillow by causing the activation cord to tighten, to cause the self-hugging pillow to compress around the user's body.

The self-hugging pillow of embodiments of the present invention thus includes functionality that can create the sensation of a hug upon a user. For example, a user may wrap the self-hugging pillow around the user's body, or a body part, or a portion of a body part, for example the user's torso, e.g., around the user's chest under the user's arms. The user may then activate the self-hugging pillow to cause the self-hugging pillow to simulate the action of a hug. For example, the user may cause the activation cord running through the interior of the self-hugging pillow to tighten, for example by grabbing each end of the activation cord, which may cause the self-hugging pillow to compress or tighten around the user. The user may pull on each end of the activation cord by crossing his or her arms and grabbing each end of the activation cord at each side of the self-hugging pillow with the right and left hands, and pulling on the activation cord, causing the self-hugging pillow to compress or tighten. The compression of the self-hugging pillow around the user is designed for simulating the compression action exerted upon a person during a hug. As such, the compression of the self-hugging pillow may squeeze the user and cause a hugging sensation, which the user may perceive as a hug.

In example embodiments of the present invention, the activation cord includes a section that is larger than the ends of the activation cord in order to ensure that, when the activation cord is pulled to compress the self-hugging pillow, the activation cord presses with a distributed pressure upon a large surface area of the interior cushioning in order to provide a soft squeezing sensation of a hug by pressure of the cushioning exerted against the user's body. In an example embodiment, the pillow further includes an interior compartment housing a large second of the cord so that the cord does not easily penetrate or slip through the stuffing material, which can generate an undesirable and uncomfortable line of a high pressure sensation of a stiff cord against the user. The compartment avoids this by ensuring placement of the cord in a position in which the cord pushes the stuffing material in the compression direction to push the stuffing material against the user. In this regard, a barrier may be disposed within the interior of the self-hugging pillow between the activation cord and the stuffing material. The barrier may be configured to prevent the activation cord from shifting within the interior of the self-hugging pillow through the stuffing material. In this manner, when the activation cord is tightened and the self-hugging pillow is compressed, the barrier ensures that, rather than the activation cord slipping and penetrating through the stuffing material and then pressing against the user, the activation cord and the barrier push the stuffing material against the user.

According to example embodiments of the present invention, a length of an interior sidewall of the pillow is in a range of 25-60 inches, and preferably in a range of 30-60 inches in order for the pillow to be wrapped around a user's chest with the ability of the pillow being subsequently compressed against the user by pulling on the cord.

Thus, according to an example embodiment, a pillow with an inner circumference of 25-60 inches is provided with a cord, in contrast to conventional pillows for which there has never been any contemplation of providing such a large pillow with a cord. Rather, it is only the present disclosure that first contemplates that there is a purpose for providing such a compression functionality to such a pillow and therefore that there is a purpose for providing such a cord to a pillow of such dimension.

Additionally, according to an example embodiment of the present invention, a pillow is provided with a cord have a center region that is wider than terminal regions of the cord, thereby optimizing a surface area of cushion being compressed against a user, in contrast to conventional pillows for which such a feature has not been previously contemplated.

Additionally, according to an example embodiment of the present invention, a setback distance of an opening through which a cord of the pillow exits a cushion casing of the pillow is at least four inches from a nearest end of the pillow in the circumferential direction of the pillow, in contrast to conventional pillows for which such a feature has not been previously contemplated.

Additionally, according to an example embodiment of the present invention, a setback distance of an opening through which a cord of the pillow exits a cushion casing of the pillow from a nearest end of the pillow in the circumferential direction of the pillow, is at least approximately a quarter of a total length of the pillow in the circumferential direction, in contrast to conventional pillows for which such a feature has not been previously contemplated.

Additionally, according to an example embodiment of the present invention, a setback distance, in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis extending through a center line of the pillow cushion casing, of an opening through which a cord of the pillow exits the cushion casing is at least two inches, and preferably at least 2.5 inches, from a nearest end of the pillow, in contrast to conventional pillows for which such a feature has not been previously contemplated.

Additionally, according to an example embodiment of the present invention, the pillow includes a barrier within the cushion casing that prevents the cord from moving interiorly to a position between the barrier and the interior wall of the pillow, in contrast to conventional pillows for which such a feature has not been previously contemplated.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of the present invention in order that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the invention will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the invention, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary self-hugging pillow configured with capabilities and functionality for simulating the action of a hug in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2A shows an internal view of an exemplary self-hugging pillow configured with capabilities and functionality for simulating the action of a hug in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2B shows an example of an activation cord configured in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2C shows another view of an example of an activation cord configured in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 shows an example of a self-hugging pillow configured with customization features in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show examples of a self-hugging pillow configured to operate around a user's torso in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4C shows an example of a self-hugging pillow configured to operate around a user's torso over the shoulder in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4D shows an example of a self-hugging pillow 100 configured to operate around a user's neck in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary flow diagram of operations for manufacturing a self-hugging pillow configured with functionality to simulate the action of a hug in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale and that the disclosed embodiments are sometimes illustrated diagrammatically and in partial views. In certain instances, details which are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosed methods and apparatuses or which render other details difficult to perceive have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that this disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Various features and advantageous details are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known starting materials, processing techniques, components, and equipment are omitted so as not to unnecessarily obscure the invention in detail. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific examples, while indicating embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, and not by way of limitation. Various substitutions, modifications, additions, and/or rearrangements within the spirit and/or scope of the underlying inventive concept will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

As noted above, various aspects of the present invention are directed to a self-hugging pillow, and/or methods of manufacturing and/or using a self-hugging pillow, that includes functionality to simulate the action of a hug. In particular aspects, a user may place the self-hugging pillow of embodiments around the user's body, or a body part, or a portion of a body part, such as around the user's torso, around the neck, or around the user's chest under the user's arms, and may activate the self-hugging pillow to cause the self-hugging pillow to simulate the action of a hug. For example, the user may cause the activation cord running through the interior of the self-hugging pillow to tighten. In aspects, the user may cause the activation cord to tighten by grabbing and pulling on each end of the activation cord to cause the self-hugging pillow to compress or tighten around the user. The user may pull on each end of the activation cord by crossing his or her arms and grabbing the left end of the activation cord at the left side of the self-hugging pillow with the right hand and grabbing the right end of the activation cord at the right side of the self-hugging pillow with the left hand, and pulling on the activation cord, causing the self-hugging pillow to compress or tighten. The compression of the self-hugging pillow around the user is provided to simulate the compression action exerted upon a person when the person is hugged. As such, the compression of the self-hugging pillow may squeeze the user and cause a hugging sensation, which the user may perceive as a hug.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary self-hugging pillow 100 configured with capabilities and functionality for simulating the action of a hug in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1 , self-hugging pillow 100 includes casing 110 and activation cord 130, and these components may be configured to include various components and configuration for providing various aspects of the functionality described herein.

In an example embodiment of the present invention, self-hugging pillow 100 has a shape and/or size configured to operate and/or be disposed around a user's body, such as a user's body part or portion thereof. For example, self-hugging pillow 100 has a shape and/or size configured to operate and/or be disposed around a user's torso or chest, such as being disposed under the user's arms, over the shoulder, and/or around the neck. It is noted. however, that it is particularly advantageous for pillow 100 to be structured and dimensioned to provide a hugging sensation when wrapped around the user's torso under the user's arms, for example as shown in FIG. 4A. Such dimensioning, for example, of particular distances of the openings, from which the cord exits pillow 100, to the respective ends, is described below. In aspects, the size may be dependent on the intended user, and may vary. For example, the size of self-hugging pillow 100 may be small when intended for a small child, or may be larger when intended for an adult. In some cases, various sizes may be configured. In some aspects, a one size fits all may be provided.

Self-hugging pillow 100 may include an inside circumference, defining an inside diameter 142 of the self-hugging pillow 100. In a particular, non-limiting example, the inside circumference may range from 25 to 60 inches in grabbing the left end of the activation cord at the left side of the self-hugging pillow with the right hand. The inside circumference can vary depending on the size of the body part around which self-hugging pillow 100 is intended to be wrapped. For example, the inside grabbing the left end of the activation cord at the left side of the self-hugging pillow with the right hand can be based on a chest size of the intended user, and can vary from a small size for children to a larger size for adults. Self-hugging pillow 100 may also include a vertical thickness dimension 144, defining the thickness of casing 110. In a manner of speaking, a vertical thickness dimension 144 may be defined by the size of the interior of casing 110. In a particular, non-limiting example, vertical thickness dimension 144 can range from 2-18 inches, and may be based on the arm size of the intended user. For example, thickness dimension 144 may vary from a small size for children to a larger size for adults. It is noted that the thickness can vary between different sections of the pillow 100. For example, the thickness can be larger at the center of pillow 100, which can be representative of the trunk of a person hugging the pillow user, than at the ends, which can be representative of the arms of the person hugging the pillow user.

The shape of self-hugging pillow 100 may be configured to wrap around the user's body or body part. For example, the shape of self-hugging pillow 100 may be generally circular, such as toroidal or donut shaped, e.g., a U-shape, open ended, toroid. In this manner, a user may wrap self-hugging pillow 100 around his or her body or body part for operation. FIGS. 4A-4D show examples of various configurations of self-hugging pillow 100. For example, FIGS. 4A and 4B show an example of self-hugging pillow 100 configured to operate around the user's torso in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In these examples, self-hugging pillow 100 is configured with a shape and/or size to operate around a user's torso or chest, disposed under the user's arms. FIG. 4C shows an example of self-hugging pillow 100 configured to operate around the user's torso over the shoulder in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In this example, self-hugging pillow 100 may be configured with a larger size (e.g., larger than when configured to operate under the arms) to operate around the user's torso disposed over the user's shoulder. FIG. 4D shows an example of self-hugging pillow 100 configured to operate around the user's neck in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In this example, self-hugging pillow 100 may be configured with a smaller size (e.g., smaller than when configured to operate under the arms or over the shoulder) to operate around the user's neck. In every example, self-hugging pillow 100 may be configured with capabilities and functionality for simulating the action of a hug in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

With reference back to FIG. 1 , casing 110 of self-hugging pillow 100 is configured with a hollow interior, where casing 110 is akin to a tube defining an interior cavity. In aspects, inside the hollow interior of self-hugging pillow 100 are disposed stuffing material and most of activation cord 130. Casing 110 includes openings 120 a and 120 b. In aspects, openings 120 a and 120 b are each disposed nearer to a respective end of casing 110 than to a center 150 of pillow 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 from perspective of the reader, opening 120 a is disposed on the left side of casing 110 and opening 120 b is disposed on the right side of casing 110. In some aspects, openings 120 a and 120 b are disposed with a setback distance from the respective ends of casing 110. The setback distance can be in a range of 2-25″ from the ends of pillow 100 depending on the user for whom the pillow 100 is intended. For example, setback distance 140 a represents the distance from the center of opening 120 a to left end 114 of casing 110, and setback distance 140 b represents the distance from the center of opening 120 b to right end 116 of casing 110. In some aspects, the setback distance for an opening is configured such that the opening is disposed within self-hugging pillow 100 in a manner that allows activation cord 130 to exit through the opening at the level of the bicep of a user when self-hugging pillow 100 is disposed around the user's torso.

In an example embodiment, (although not shown in the figures) setback distance 140 a/140 b for an opening is approximately one quarter of the length of casing 110.

In an example embodiment, setback distance 140 a/14 b is 4″ from the center of the opening 120 a/120 b to the furthest point of the respective nearest end 114/116 of pillow 100 measured on a straight line.

In example embodiments, openings 120 a and 120 b are offset, in the vertical direction from the vertical position of a central longitudinal axis running through the center of self-hugging pillow 100, and/or are offset, in the horizontal direction from the horizontal position of the central longitudinal axis running through the center of self-hugging pillow 100; but rather, openings 120 a and 120 b can be disposed with an edge distance from the bottom edge and from the horizontal center of self-hugging pillow 100. For example, openings 120 a and 120 b are not disposed at the vertical and horizontal positions of longitudinal axis 148, which runs through the center of self-hugging pillow 100. Instead, as shown by way of example in FIG. 1 , opening 120 a is disposed off of the shown horizontal position of longitudinal axis 148 and with an edge distance 146 a from the interior edge of self-hugging pillow 100, and opening 120 b is disposed off of the shown horizontal position of longitudinal axis 148 and with an edge distance 146 b from the interior edge of self-hugging pillow 100. Additionally, openings 120 a and 120 b can be provided, for example, at the top of the casing 110 so that the user can easily pull the cord 130 when the pillow 110 is held under the user's underarms as shown in FIG. 4A. In example embodiments, the edge distance 146 a/146 b is be approximately 2 to 2.5 inches off the longitudinal axis.

The furthest point of the respective nearest end 114/116 of pillow 100 from the openings 120 a and 120 b need not be at the same vertical position as the respective openings 120 a and 120 b. For example, the ends 114 and 116 can be tapered to a point so that the point of the ends 114 and 116 that are at the same vertical position as central longitudinal axis 148 is further from center 150 than the upper region of the ends 114 and 116. In an example embodiment, in a direction that is parallel to the extension of central longitudinal axis 148 of pillow 100 extending between the two ends 114/116 of pillow 100 in the length direction of pillow 100, the respective centers of respective openings 120 a and 120 b are at least 2″, preferably at least 2.5″, from the respective points of respective ends 114 and 116 of pillow 100 reached when extending from respective openings 120 a and 120 b in the parallel extension direction.

Activation cord 130 is configured to run through the interior of casing 110, with each end of activation cord (e.g., end 132 a and end 132 b) exiting or departing from the interior of casing 110 through a respective one of openings 120 a and 120 b. FIG. 2A shows an internal view of exemplary self-hugging pillow 100 configured with capabilities and functionality for simulating the action of a hug in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 2A, casing 110 of self-hugging pillow 100 is configured with a hollow interior. Stuffing material 210 is disposed within casing 110. In example embodiments, stuffing material 210 is a soft and resilient material, such as feathers, down, foam, memory foam, rubber, latex, polyester, cotton, wool, gel, and/or any other material typically used as cushion and stuffing material for pillows. Stuffing material 210 can be firm enough to give shape to self-hugging pillow 100, but also be soft enough to be comfortable when disposed around the user's body. In addition, stuffing material 210 is configured to be compressible such that, when self-hugging pillow 100 is activated to simulate a hugging action, stuffing material 210 is compressed and pressed against the user.

As mentioned above, activation cord 130 is configured to run through the interior of casing 110. In example embodiments, activation cord 130 can be a rope, a strap, a band, a belt, and/or any other suitably appropriate type of strap or cord. The activation cord 130 can be elastic or may be rigid. In any case, activation cord 130 is configured to provide a compression or tightening force when each of ends 132 a and 132 b are pulled through openings 120 a and 120 b, respectively.

As shown, activation cord 130 runs through the entirety of the length of casing 110. In example embodiment, the cord 130 extends from the exterior of pillow 110 through opening 120 a, through the interior of casing 110 to opening 120 b, and then through opening 120 b back out to the exterior of pillow 100. For example, FIG. 2A shows activation cord 130 running from end 132 a into casing 110 through opening 120 a near left end 114, through the entirety of the length of casing 110, out of casing 110 through opening 120 b near right end 116 and terminating at end 132 b. As mentioned above, in example embodiments, to allow for a comfortable pulling of cord 130 when pillow 100 is positioned around the user's torso, openings 120 a and 120 b are not disposed at the respective ends 114 and 116 of casing 110, but rather are setback at a setback distance from the their respective ends. Additionally, in example embodiments, openings 120 a and 120 b are not disposed at the vertical and horizontal positions of longitudinal axis 148 running through self-hugging pillow 100, but rather are disposed at an edge distance from the bottom edge of self-hugging pillow 100.

In example embodiments of the present invention, activation cord 130 is configured to facilitate the hugging simulation action when self-hugging pillow 100 is compressed by pulling ends 132 a and 132 b. In an example embodiment, for this purpose, activation cord 130 includes a section within activation cord 130 that is larger, in cross-section vertical size, than ends 132 a and 132 b. As used herein, cross-section size may refer to the size of the activation cord in the cross-section direction of the activation cord, rather than along the length of the activation cord. In an example embodiment, the larger section is a center section. The larger cross-section size of the center section is provided to facilitate the hugging simulation action by pushing a large vertical surface area of the cushion material towards the user when the user pulls on cord 130, and it also is intended to help prevent activation cord 130 from penetrating through stuffing material 210 when activation cord 130 is tightened. For example, when a user pulls each of ends 132 a and 132 b, activation cord 130 is tightened, causing activation cord 130 to move toward interior wall 220 of self-hugging pillow 100. Without the particular configuration of activation cord 130 according to aspects of the present disclosure, activation cord 130 would cut or penetrate through stuffing material 210 and, instead of pushing stuffing material 210 against the user, activation cord 130 would push against interior wall 220 and uncomfortably against the user. In this case, the user would feel activation cord and may not perceive a hugging sensation, but rather merely the sharpness of a rope against the user's body. By contrast, with the particular configuration of activation cord 130 according to the described example embodiments of the present disclosure (e.g., with a larger center section), activation cord 130 is prevented from cutting or penetrating through stuffing material 210 and, instead, when tightened, would push stuffing material 210 against the user. In this case, the user would perceive a more pleasant hugging sensation as stuffing material, rather than activation cord 130, is pressed against the user.

FIG. 2B shows an example of an activation cord configured in accordance with aspects of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, activation cord 130 includes a section 236 (e.g., a center section) that is larger in one or more dimensions than end sections 234 a and 234 b of activation cord 130. In an example embodiment, section 236 is tubular with a larger diameter than end sections 234 a and 234 b. In an alternative example embodiment, section 236 is a flat portion, while end sections 234 a and 234 b can be tubular, for example as illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 2C, with FIG. 2C showing a different view of activation cord 130 at a perspective that is at 90 degree angle from the perspective shown in FIG. 2B. For example, FIG. 2B provides a front view of cord 130 and FIG. 2C provides a bottom view of cord 130. In this example, section 236 has a height that is larger than the diameter of ends 234 a and 234 b. In this manner, by configuring activation cord 130 such that a center region of activation cord 130 is tall, and the two ends 234 a and 234 b of activation cord 130, which are configured to exit through openings 120 a and 120 b, are narrower, activation cord 130 is prevented from pushing through the stuffing material and pressing against the user during compression and also is configured to provide an optimized and increased pressing of cushion material against the user.

In addition, with reference to FIG. 2A, the configuration of activation cord 130 with a larger center section than the ends facilitates the hugging simulation action by enabling the compression action of self-hugging pillow 100. For example, the majority of activation cord 130 is disposed within shell 110, while ends 132 a and 132 b are disposed outside of shell 110. In example embodiment, the ends 132 a and 132 b have a larger diameter, or include a region having a larger diameter, than portions of the cord 130 that slide in and out of openings 120 a and 120 b, the larger diameter regions preventing the ends 132 a or 132 b from being inadvertently pulled entirely into the interior of pillow 100. When a user pulls each of ends 132 a and 132 b, the majority of cord 130, and especially section 236, the cord 130 is pulled through and against openings 120 a and 120 b. In this case, with the cord 130 being properly positioned due to the described dimensions of the different sections, section 236 of activation cord 130 is prevented from exiting through openings 120 a and 120 b, due to its larger size and/or due to the larger diameter region of the exterior sections of ends 132 a and 132 b, thereby providing for self-hugging pillow 100 to compress due to the pulling action on ends 132 a and 132 b.

In an example embodiment of the present invention, a barrier is provided to prevent cord 130 from moving against the interior wall of shell 110. For example, as shown in FIG. 2A, barrier 250 is disposed within shell 110. Barrier 250 is a piece of material of defined dimensions, such as plastic, woven cloth, and/or any other suitably appropriate material with defined length and width dimensions, configured to prevent activation cord 130 from cutting, slipping, penetrating, and/or otherwise shifting through stuffing material 210 against the interior of shell 110. Barrier 250 can be shaped as a curved piece of material disposed, at least partially, along or near the center line of shell 110, between activation cord 130 and the inside surface of interior wall 220, which is the wall of self-hugging pillow 100 that makes contact with the user when disposed around the user's body. In this manner, barrier 250 can prevent activation cord 130 from shifting through the interior of shell 110 away from the center line of shell 110 and toward and against interior wall 220. For example, upper and lower edges of barrier 250 can be sewed to, respectively, the top and bottom of the interior of shell 110 at a particular position between interior wall 250 and an opposite exterior wall of the shell 110. In addition, a portion 212 of stuffing material 210 may be disposed between barrier 250 and interior wall 220. In this manner, when activation cord 130 is tightened, the compression force pushes barrier against portion 212, causing the stuffing material of portion 212 to push against the user, thereby simulating a hugging action.

In an example embodiment, barrier 250 does not extend beyond openings 120 a and 120 b, and may instead terminate against interior wall 220 before reaching openings 120 a and 120 b, off the center line of shell 110, to accommodate activation cord 130 extending to the exterior of shell 110 through openings 120 a and 120 b. For example, where barrier 250 is disposed along the center line of shell 110 in the horizontal direction, extending barrier beyond openings 120 a and 120 b toward ends 114 and 116 can prevent activation cord 130 from exiting shell 110 through openings 120 a and 120 b in embodiments in which openings 120 a and 120 b are disposed horizontally interior to the center line of shell 110. In this case, barrier 250 can be terminated before reaching openings 120 a and 120 b. In an example embodiment, barrier 250 is curved to anchor barrier against interior wall 220. In an alternative example embodiment, barrier 250 extends beyond openings 120 a and 120 b toward ends 114 and 116, but openings are provided in barrier 250 through which activation cord 1360 can pass through barrier 250 to then exit shell 110 through openings 120 a and 120 b.

In an example embodiment of the present invention, self-hugging pillow 100 includes customization features. FIG. 3 is an example of self-hugging pillow configured with customization features in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. For example, in an example embodiment, self-hugging pillow 100 includes section 310 for including customization features. For example, the customization features can include printed graphics, such as a picture of a person, pet, character, etc., as well, as other types of graphics. In this manner, when self-hugging pillow 100 is operated to simulate a hugging action, a user may perceive a hug from the person, pet, character, etc. displayed on section 310. In aspects, section 310 can include a display screen, such as a foldable display, printable screen, etc., configured to display pictures, videos, audios, etc., further providing customization to self-hugging pillow 100.

Operation of self-hugging pillow 100 will now be discussed with respect to FIG. 4A in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. During operation of self-hugging pillow 100, user 410 may dispose self-hugging pillow 100 around the user's body. For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, user 410 may dispose self-hugging pillow 100 around the user's chest, under the user's underarms. In this manner, self-hugging pillow 100 would wrap user 410's chest. It is noted that, in this configuration, each half of self-hugging pillow 100 can act as an “arm” during the hugging simulation action, where the left half 430 a of self-hugging pillow 100 acts as the right arm of a person giving the hug to user 410 and the right half 430 b of self-hugging pillow 100 acts as the left arm of the person giving the hug to user 410. In this manner, the subsequent compression or tightening action of self-hugging pillow 100 simulates a hugging action and gives the sensation of a hug to user 410.

During operation of self-hugging pillow 100, with self-hugging pillow 100 wrapped around user 410's chest, user 410 can activate self-hugging pillow 100. In an example embodiment, activating self-hugging pillow 100 can include grabbing and pulling each of ends 120 a and 120 b of activation cord 130 to cause self-hugging pillow 100 to compress. In an example embodiment, self-hugging pillow 100 is configured to enable user 410 to grab ends 120 a and 120 b with crossed arms. For example, user 410 can cross user 410's arms, one arm over the other, reach across with user 410's left hand to grab end 120 a, and reach across with user 410's right hand to grab end 120 b. User 410 can pull end 120 a with the left hand in direction 420 b, and concurrently pull end 120 b with the right hand in direction 420 a. This pulling of ends 120 a and 120 b causes self-hugging pillow 100 to compress or tighten, causing half 430 a and half 430 b to move or tighten against and around user 410, as in a hugging action. In this manner, self-hugging pillow 100 simulates a hugging action. This compression, or hugging action, of self-hugging pillow 100 may be perceived as a hugging sensation by user 410, with half 430 a and half 430 b simulating the arms of the hugging person.

In an example embodiment, a tightening module 170 (as shown in FIG. 4B) is provided which can be used to tighten or compress self-hugging pillow 100, rather than requiring the manual pulling on ends 120 a and 120 b by user 410 to cause the hugging action. Tightening module 170 can include a motor, a solenoid, and/or any other circuitry to create a pulling force that is concurrently applied to ends 120 a and 120 b of activation cord 130 to cause self-hugging pillow 100 to compress in a hugging action. The tightening pressure can be variable, and a user can adjust the desired pressure of the hugging sensation, which can cause tightening module 170 to adjust the pulling pressure on ends 120 a and 120 b accordingly. In this manner, the pressure of the simulated hug is adjustable. In aspects, tightening module 170 can be activated via an onboard switch, or can be activated remotely, such as via a remote switch or a mobile device. For example user 410 might be on the phone with a loved one who has remote control of tightening module 170 and the loved one can decide when to “hug” user 410 by remote control of module 170. That is, tightening module 170 can be activated remotely, such as via the internet by a third-party, and in this manner provide a mechanism for user 410 to perceive a hug from self-hugging pillow 100 that is initiated by the third party, rather than by users 410 themselves. This may provide a further connection to a loved one who may be away.

In an alternative example embodiment, module 170 is a clip formed of two sections, a first section being at end 132 a or cord 130 and the second section being at end 132 b, where the two sections can be clipped to each by user 410, where, when clipped together, the ends 132 a and 132 b extend downward through their respective sections of the clip at the front center of the user 410, so that the user 410 can easily pull down on two ends 132 a and 132 b so that they move through their respective clip sections thereby causing the cord 130 to compress pillow 100.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary flow diagram of operations for manufacturing a self-hugging pillow configured with functionality to simulate the action of a hug in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. For example, the steps illustrated in the example blocks shown in FIG. 5 may be performed to manufacture self-hugging pillow 100 of FIGS. 1-4D, according to embodiments herein.

At block 502, a casing of a pillow is shaped as an open-ended toroidal shape. The open-ended toroidal shape (e.g., U-shaped donut) may be defined from a first end of the toroidal shape to a second end of the toroidal shape, such as the shape of self-hugging pillow 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2A. An interior wall of the toroidal shape is configured to contact a user when the pillow is disposed around the user, and a size of the casing can be configured to wrap the toroidal shape of the pillow around the user's chest.

At block 504, cushioning material is placed into the interior of the casing. At block 506, a first opening is placed on the casing proximal to the first end of the toroidal shape and a second opening is placed on the casing proximal to the second end of the toroidal shape. In an example embodiment, the first opening and the second opening on the casing are placed with a predefined setback from the first end and the second ends of the toroidal shape, respectively. The setback can include a setback distance of two or more inches, preferably at least 2.5″, from the first end and the second end of the toroidal shape, respectively, in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis extending through a center line of the casing between the first end and the second end of the toroidal shape in the length direction of the casing, and/or a setback distance equal to a quarter, or approximately a quarter, of a length of the casing, and/or a setback of at least 4″ from the nearest point of the nearest end of the casing. In aspects, placing the first opening and the second opening on the casing with a setback from the first end and the second end of the toroidal shape, respectively, may include disposing the first opening and the second opening on a location of the casing configured to be positioned proximal to the user's bicep when the pillow is wrapped around the user's chest.

At block 508, an activation cord is disposed within the interior of the casing. In aspects, a first end of the activation cord can exit from the interior shell of the casing through the first opening on the casing proximal to the first end of the toroidal shape, and a second end of the activation cord can exit from the interior shell of the casing through the second opening on the casing proximal to the second end of the toroidal shape. In aspects, the activation cord is configured to compress the pillow to simulate a hugging action when the user causes the first end and the second end of the activation cord to be concurrently pulled.

Although the present invention and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure of the present invention, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized according to the present invention. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A pillow, comprising: a toroidally-shaped casing having a first end and a second end; a cushioning material within the casing, wherein an interior wall of the casing is configured to contact a user when the pillow is disposed around the user; and an activation cord disposed within the casing; wherein: a first end of the activation cord exits the casing through a first opening of the casing proximal to the first end of the casing and a second end of the activation cord exits the casing through a second opening of the casing proximal to the second end of the casing; one or both of the first opening and the second opening is setback from a respective nearest one of the first and second ends of the casing; and the activation cord, when the first and second ends of the cord are concurrently pulled away from the casing, is configured to compress the cushioning material pillow against the interior wall to simulate a hugging action.
 2. The pillow of claim 1, wherein the activation cord includes a center section having a larger cross-section size than a cross-section size of the first end of the activation cord and the second end of the activation cord.
 3. The pillow of claim 2, wherein the larger cross section size of the center section includes: a larger diameter of the center section than the diameter of the first end of the activation cord and the second end of the activation cord; or a larger height of the center section than a height of the first end of the activation cord and of the second end of the activation cord, wherein the center section of the activation cord is a flat section.
 4. The pillow of claim 2, wherein the larger cross-section size of the center section of the activation cord facilitates prevention of slippage of the activation cord through the cushioning material during compression of the pillow.
 5. The pillow of claim 1, wherein the setback of the one or more of the first opening or the second opening on the casing from the respective nearest end of the casing includes one or more of: a setback distance of four or more inches from the respective nearest end of the casing; a setback distance of two or more inches in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis extending through a center line of the casing between the first end and the second end of the casing in the length direction of the casing; and a setback distance equal to approximately quarter of a length of the casing.
 6. The pillow of claim 1, wherein the activation cord runs uninterrupted through an interior of the casing from the first opening on the casing to the second opening of the casing.
 7. The pillow of claim 1, further comprising: a barrier disposed between the activation cord and the interior wall of the casing.
 8. The pillow of claim 7, wherein the barrier is configured to prevent slippage of the activation cord through the cushioning material to the interior wall of the casing during compression of the pillow.
 9. The pillow of claim 1, further comprising: a customization section configured to display graphics.
 10. The pillow of claim 1, further comprising a tightening module configured to apply a pulling force upon the first end and the second end of the activation cord concurrently, wherein the user causing the first end and the second end of the activation cord to be concurrently pulled includes the user causing tightening module to apply the pulling force upon the first end and the second end of the activation cord concurrently.
 11. A method of manufacturing a pillow, comprising: shaping a casing of the pillow as an open-ended toroidal shape defined from a first end of the toroidal shape to a second end of the toroidal shape, wherein an interior wall of the toroidal shape is configured to contact a user when the pillow is disposed around the user; inserting cushioning material into the interior of the casing; placing a first opening on the casing proximal to the first end of the toroidal shape and a second opening on the casing proximal to the second end of the toroidal shape, wherein the first opening and the second opening on the casing are placed with a setback from the first end and the second end of the toroidal shape, respectively; and disposing an activation cord within the interior of the casing, wherein a first end of the activation cord exits from an interior of the casing through the first opening on the casing and a second end of the activation cord exits from the interior of the casing through the second opening on the casing proximal to the second end of the casing, wherein the activation cord is configured to compress the pillow to simulate a hugging action when the user causes the first end and the second end of the activation cord to be concurrently pulled.
 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: shaping the activation cord to include a center section having a larger cross-section size than a cross-section size of the first end of the activation cord and of the second end of the activation cord.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein shaping the activation cord to include a center section having the larger cross section size includes one or more of: shaping the center section to have a larger diameter than the diameter of the first end of the activation cord and the second end of the activation cord; or shaping the center section as a flat section having a larger height than a height of the first end of the activation cord and the second end of the activation cord.
 14. The method of claim 12, wherein the larger cross-section size of the center section of the activation cord facilitates prevention of slippage of the activation cord through the cushioning material during compression of the pillow.
 15. The method of claim 11, wherein placing the first opening and the second opening on the casing with the setback from the first end and the second end of the casing, respectively, includes one or more of: placing the first opening and the second opening on the casing with a setback distance of four or more inches from the respective nearest end of the casing; placing the first opening and the second opening on the casing with a setback of two or more inches in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis extending through a center line of the casing between the first end and the second end of the casing in the length direction of the casing; and placing the first opening and the second opening on the casing with a setback distance equal to approximately quarter of a length of the casing.
 16. The method of claim 11, wherein, in the disposing step, the activation cord is disposed, within the casing of the pillow, to run through the interior of the casing from the first opening on the casing to the second opening of the casing uninterrupted.
 17. The method of claim 11, further comprising: placing a barrier between the activation cord and the interior wall of the casing.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the barrier is configured to prevent slippage of the activation cord through the cushioning material to the interior wall of the casing during compression of the pillow.
 19. The method of claim 11, further comprising: placing a customization section configured to display graphics.
 20. The method of claim 11, further comprising: configuring a tightening module to apply a pulling force upon the first end and the second end of the activation cord concurrently, wherein the user causing the first end and the second end of the activation cord to be concurrently pulled includes the user causing tightening module to apply the pulling force upon the first end and the second end of the activation cord concurrently. 